Two full days in Orlando

Question

Hi, we are 2 couples from the Uk, not particularly interested in the parks but have a couple of full days in Orlando, staying at the Staybridge Suites near Old Town. First day we intend to spend around Celebration and Old Town but second day we have a choice of Disney Boardwalk, Disney Springs or Downtown Disney, any recommendations out of these 3 locations, one couple in our 50’s, the other couple in 70’s?? Many thanks.

Answer

For a two-day Orlando visit without a focus on theme parks, you have some excellent options for a mix of relaxation, dining, and entertainment. Since your first day is planned around Celebration and Old Town, your second day can focus on Disney’s shopping and dining districts, each offering a slightly different atmosphere.

Here’s a breakdown of your options for the second day:

Disney BoardWalk: This is a charming, waterfront area with a mix of casual dining, bars, and entertainment. The atmosphere is lively but not overwhelming, and it offers easy walking along the promenade with benches and seating areas. There are street performers and occasional live music, which can be enjoyable for both the 50s and 70s couples.
Disney Springs (formerly Downtown Disney): The largest of the three, Disney Springs offers a wide variety of restaurants, shops, and entertainment options. It’s very stroller/wheelchair-friendly, making it accessible for older visitors. You can enjoy shopping, live music, and themed restaurants without entering a park. It tends to be more commercial and bustling, so if you prefer a more relaxed pace, you might need to plan ahead to avoid the busiest times.
Downtown Disney (if you mean the former Disney Village area at Disneyland; in Orlando, this is now Disney Springs): Essentially, this is now Disney Springs. If you were considering Downtown Disney as in the original term, note that it is completely rebranded and expanded as Disney Springs.

Recommendations based on your group:

For a more relaxed, scenic walk with waterfront views, small shops, and an easier pace, Disney BoardWalk is ideal.
For more variety in shopping and dining, with a wider selection of restaurants and themed experiences, Disney Springs works well, but expect larger crowds and more walking.
If you prefer to combine casual dining with people-watching and entertainment, BoardWalk may be more enjoyable for a leisurely day with older guests.

Other tips:

Arrive early to find parking or use Disney transportation to avoid hassles.
Consider making dining reservations in advance, especially for lunch or dinner at Disney Springs.
Bring comfortable walking shoes, as both areas involve strolling along promenades.

Overall, for a balance of relaxation, dining, and gentle sightseeing, Disney BoardWalk may be the best fit for your group. Disney Springs is great if you want more variety and shopping options but be prepared for larger crowds and more walking.